"Typically dark garnet, this isn't nearly as effusive or ebullient as the Lytton Estate. It rather reminded us of the '94 Ridges, with dry, restrained Rhone-ish nutmeg/plum/blackberry/dark chocolate character. CZ opined that it has "a little sweeter intensity than the '94s, but lacks some of the depth." With air, some sweet oak/Draper perfume comes out, and we liked it better than the first time we tried it. Alan and Kim finally decided that it's better than the '94. It is likely to improve over the next few years, and while it's not all we would have hoped for, it's still pretty nice. "
Best 2005-2012

"This, Ridge's 25th vintage of Lytton Springs, marks the completion of the new, sustainable winery, and the first time Ridge has made the wine on the estate where it is grown. 2003's short crop and intense September heat caused the fruit to ripen all at once. Tannins were highly extractable, so almost half the grapes were left uncrushed, and the number of pump-overs was reduced. As malolactic fermentation finished, the finest and most typical lots were assembled and racked to barrel. After 12 months in air-dried American oak, the wine was fined with nine egg whites per barrel, balancing firm structure and sensuous fruit. This classic Lytton Springs is enjoyable now. It will soften with a year or two in bottle and develop fully over the next eight to ten years. 76% zinfandel, 18% petite sirah and 6% carignane."